The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to the country’s development, citing the 2026 national budget as a key component of President Bola Tinubu’s reform agenda. According to Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the budget is designed to consolidate gains and ensure shared prosperity for Nigerians.
The proposed 2026 budget, totaling 58.18 trillion, focuses on security, infrastructure, health, and education. Key allocations include 5.41 trillion for defense, 3.56 trillion for infrastructure, 3.52 trillion for education, and 2.48 trillion for health. The budget is based on a $64.85 oil benchmark, 1.84 million barrels of oil per day production, and a $1,400 exchange rate.
Idris noted that the current administration’s economic reforms are yielding positive results, with business activity expanding, investor confidence improving, inflation easing, and Nigeria’s external reserves strengthening. He emphasized the importance of trust and clear communication between the government and its citizens, ensuring that Nigerians are kept informed about government actions, challenges, and progress.
The Minister highlighted various interventions aimed at directly impacting lives, including the student loan programme, the Presidential CNG initiative, and youth-focused programmes such as LEEP and the Jubilee Fellows Programme. He also noted ongoing efforts to tackle food insecurity and improve infrastructure, including major projects like the Coastal Highway and the AKK Gas Pipeline.
On security, Idris stated that the government is strengthening recruitment, equipment, and international cooperation, citing the recent rescue of abducted students in Kebbi and Niger States as evidence of renewed focus and commitment. He acknowledged the fatigue many Nigerians feel and assured them that the government is committed to accelerating the delivery of relief through ongoing reforms.
As the new year begins, the Minister urged Nigerians to stay focused on the future, emphasizing the need for citizens to engage constructively, protect public assets, and reject misinformation. He praised President Tinubu for his calm and decisive leadership, noting that recent engagements with the United States helped strengthen bilateral relations and Nigeria’s anti-insurgency efforts. The Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation will remain open, accountable, and consistent in communicating government policies and actions, with the goal of building a better future for all Nigerians.
